Cooking Made Easy: 10 Quick Weeknight Dinners

Fast and Flavorful: Stir-Fried Chicken & Veggies

On busy weeknights, a stir-fry is your best friend. Start by slicing boneless chicken breasts and a medley of your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. In a hot pan, add a splash of oil, chicken, and a dash of salt and pepper. Stir until browned. Add veggies and a quick homemade sauce of soy, ginger, and garlic. Cook until everything is tender-crisp, and serve over steamed rice or noodles for a filling, delicious meal.

Simple Pasta with Garlic and Chili

Who knew that just a handful of ingredients could create such a delightful dish? Cook a pot of your favorite pasta. In another pan, heat olive oil and sauté chopped garlic and chili flakes until aromatic. Toss the drained pasta into the pan, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Finish with fresh parsley for an elegant yet effortless dinner that’s ready in minutes.

Comforting Beef Tacos in a Jiffy

Ground beef tacos are as quick as they are comforting. Sauté ground beef in a skillet with onions, taco seasoning, and a touch of water. Simmer until the beef is cooked through. Serve in taco shells with fresh toppings such as lettuce, diced tomatoes, grated cheese, and your favorite salsa or sour cream. It’s a surefire way to please the whole family.

One-Pan Lemon Herb Baked Salmon

Salmon is a weeknight winner for its rapid cooking time. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet, and drizzle with olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt, pepper, and your choice of fresh herbs like dill or parsley. Bake at a high temperature for 12-15 minutes until the salmon flakes easily. Pair with a quick cucumber salad or steamed vegetables for a healthy, balanced meal.

Satisfying Veggie Stir-Fried Rice

Stir-fried rice is adaptable to whatever you have in the fridge. Start with leftover rice, then stir-fry with onions, mixed vegetables like peas and carrots, a whisked egg, and soy sauce. Add tofu for protein, if desired. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor. It’s a quick fix that hits the spot every time.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

A warm bowl of creamy tomato basil soup is like a hug in a bowl. Sauté onions and garlic in a pot until translucent, then add canned tomatoes and vegetable broth. Allow to simmer before adding a generous handful of fresh basil and a splash of cream. Blend until smooth for velvety perfection. Pair with grilled cheese sandwiches for an easy soup-and-sandwich combo.

Classic Chicken Caesar Salad

When you desire something both light and hearty, a chicken caesar salad is a go-to. Grill or pan-sear chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Slice and serve atop romaine lettuce, with homemade or store-bought caesar dressing, croutons, and plenty of Parmesan cheese. It’s fresh, fast, and incredibly satisfying.

Five-Ingredient Teriyaki Meatballs

These meatballs are speedy to prepare and a hit with kids and adults alike. Mix ground meat of your choice with breadcrumbs, an egg, and salt. Form into balls and bake until cooked. In a saucepan, combine soy sauce, sugar, and ginger to create a teriyaki glaze. Combine the cooked meatballs with the sauce and serve over rice or in lettuce wraps for a contemporary twist.

Instant Pot Chili in Under an Hour

Make a hearty pot of chili in record time using your Instant Pot. Brown ground beef with onions and garlic, then add canned tomatoes, kidney beans, and chili spices. Seal the pot and set it to pressure cook. In under an hour, you’ll have a luscious, savory chili. Serve with cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete meal that warms the soul.

Quick and Easy Shrimp Tacos

Indulge in the flavors of the sea with shrimp tacos. Toss shrimp in olive oil, lime juice, and taco seasoning, and pan-fry until pink. Serve in warm tortillas with cabbage slaw, avocado slices, and a drizzle of creamy chipotle sauce. The sweet and spicy contrast is irresistible, making these tacos a memorable meal fit for any night of the week.